IT'S TIME TO RESOLVE THE SPECTRUM CONUNDRUM

India needs a balanced policy that can protect the spectrum rights of the incumbent broadcasting sector and also accommodate the 5G players

Price sensitivity is a critical characteristic of Indian consumers, making the affordability of communication media crucial in the field of information and broadcasting. Undoubtedly, broadcasting serves as a highly cost-effective and reliable source of entertainment, information, and knowledge for the masses. Moreover, it plays a significant role in expanding the reach of education and awareness to rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged citizens. Governments also utilise broadcasting for public welfare and promoting socioeconomic development. Hence, it merits considerable importance in the communication landscape.

The Cable and Satellite (C&S) sector holds significant importance for the nation as it caters to communication and entertainment services for 207 million TV households, including both rural and urban areas. With nearly 900 registered TV channels transmitted through satellites using the C-Band radio spectrum (4-8 GHz) and Ku Band (11-13 GHz), the sector is served by 1,701 registered distribution platform operators (DPOS) across India.

Notably, the sector also provides direct and indirect employment to nearly two million people. The per capita media consumption through television has grown at a 7% CAGR from 2020 to 2022 and is projected to grow at an even faster rate in the future. Given these figures, the significance of nurturing and fostering the sector cannot be overstated.

THE BIG SPECTRUM DEBATE